Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Friday that running back Kenneth Walker III is dealing with groin tightness and did not practice. Reid said the team would monitor Walker’s condition through the afternoon and into Saturday before determining his status for Sunday’s game against the Atlanta Falcons.
“Somewhere he tweaked it,” Reid said. “He’s not one to say something like that, but he was tight this morning. We’re feeling it out to see where we’re at. We’re not going to put him at risk or anything. If he can go, he will go; if he can’t, he can’t.”
Walker’s potential absence would be a significant setback for Kansas City. He has rushed for 872 yards, the second-most in the NFL, and recorded 26 receptions for 172 yards. He also has 11 total touchdowns this season.
## Emmett Johnson Could Step In If Walker Is Out
If Walker cannot play, rookie Emmett Johnson is expected to take on a larger role. Johnson has totaled 111 rushing yards, 237 receiving yards on 14 catches, and two touchdowns. He was named Pepsi Rookie of the Week after his performance against the Denver Broncos in Week 8.
The Chiefs’ depth at running back could also be tested. Brashard Smith is on injured reserve, while Jayden Ott has been called up from the practice squad and is questionable with a hamstring injury. Second-year running back Nate Carter is the only other running back currently on Kansas City’s practice squad. If Ott is unavailable, Carter could be elevated to the active roster.
